Arsenal’s hunt for a world-class striker has become the centerpiece of the upcoming summer transfer saga. Mikel Arteta knows that to truly mount a title challenge next season, he needs a lethal frontman to lead the line. Among all options, Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has taken the spotlight as the dream signing — the kind of forward who could transform Arsenal’s attack with his pace, flair, and eye for goal.
Isak has been electric this season, notching 22 goals in just 32 appearances. His ability to stretch defenses, combine with midfielders, and finish under pressure aligns perfectly with Arteta’s blueprint. But dreams often crash into reality, and here’s the hitch — Newcastle are asking a king’s ransom, somewhere between £130 and £150 million. Add the fact that Newcastle may qualify for Champions League again, and selling their star forward seems unlikely.
Faced with the possibility of Isak slipping through their fingers, Arsenal aren’t waiting to be left empty-handed. They’ve been laying the groundwork behind the scenes, casting a wide net across Europe in search of someone who can carry the weight of their No. 9 shirt. If the Isak deal goes south, they’ve got names in mind — and one of them is Benjamin Sesko.
Sesko, the towering 6’4″ Slovenian striker from RB Leipzig, has been on Arsenal’s radar since last summer. With 14 goals and 3 assists this season, he’s already showing glimpses of top-tier potential. Still just 21, Sesko blends raw power with unexpected agility. He’s a menace in the box, and his rumored release clause of £62 million makes him a much more digestible financial proposition than Isak.
One hitch, though: Sesko wants to play. Last year, he reportedly turned down Premier League clubs because he didn’t want to ride the bench. But Arsenal’s striker situation has shifted — Jesus can’t stay fit, and Havertz is hot and cold. If there was ever a time for Sesko to walk into a starting role at a top English club, this is it.
Another name Arsenal are eyeing is Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP. The Swedish striker has been putting up ridiculous numbers in Portugal — 90 goals in two seasons, and he’s being tracked by Chelsea and United too. With a price tag between £59 and £70 million, he’s another cost-effective option who brings power, pace, and versatility in attack.
But here’s the skeptic’s view — doing it in Portugal isn’t the same as doing it in the Premier League. Some players shine bright in smaller leagues and fade when the spotlight intensifies. Still, Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly a big fan, and if Gyokeres is keen on England, it could be a match that makes sense — both competitively and financially.
Then there’s the wildcard: Victor Osimhen. The Napoli striker, currently loaned to Galatasaray, could be available for around £55 million. For that price, you’re getting someone who once fired Napoli to a historic Serie A title. Osimhen is strong, fast, relentless — a striker made for the Premier League. But there are risks: injury concerns, a possible preference for Juventus, and interest from rival clubs.
All things considered, Arsenal have a tightrope to walk. Splurging £150 million on Isak might box them in when they also need depth on the wings and in midfield. Going for Sesko or Gyokeres could allow them to strengthen elsewhere too. And let’s not forget, player sales could boost their war chest — names like Ramsdale, Tomiyasu, and even Jesus may be on the chopping block if bids come in.
When the dust settles, it’ll be Arteta and Berta steering the ship through choppy transfer waters. Whether it’s Isak, Sesko, Gyokeres, or Osimhen, the striker Arsenal choose will shape their fate — not just for next season, but for years to come. Nail this move, and the Gunners could finally find themselves back on top of English football, where they believe they belong.
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